Instant Pot Taco Pasta

If you’re looking for a dinner that combines the bold flavors of taco night with the comforting satisfaction of pasta, you’ve found your new favorite recipe. This Instant Pot Taco Pasta is a quick, one-pot meal that packs a punch with savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and creamy cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free. The best part? The Instant Pot does all the hard work, cooking the pasta right in the sauce so every bite is bursting with flavor.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes this recipe stand out is the perfect marriage of two classic dishes – tacos and pasta – into one delicious, easy meal. Using the Instant Pot means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor infusion as the pasta cooks right in the savory beef and tomato mixture. This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it a crowd-pleaser for families and a great weeknight dinner solution. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese, hitting all the comfort food notes without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef, 85-90% lean
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 8-ounce can (225g) tomato sauce
• 1 cup mild salsa (homemade or store-bought)
• 3 cups (700ml) beef stock
• 12 ounces (340g) uncooked medium pasta shells
• 6 ounces (170g) cheddar cheese (about 1 ½ cups), shredded
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

How To Make Instant Pot Taco Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat a little oil. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef mixture. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to evenly coat the beef with spices.

Step 3: Add the Sauces and Stock

Pour in the tomato sauce, mild salsa, and beef stock. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to avoid any stuck bits that could trigger the burn warning on your Instant Pot.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Pour the uncooked pasta shells directly into the pot. Do not stir after adding the pasta to prevent sticking. Just gently press the pasta down so it is mostly submerged under the liquid.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Cream

Open the lid and give the pasta a good stir. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and rich.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

Expert Tips

• Use medium pasta shells or any other small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or rotini for the best texture.
• Be sure to scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot before pressure cooking to prevent the burn notice.
• If you want a little extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy salsa instead of mild.
• For creamier pasta, you can add a bit more heavy cream or even a splash of milk after cooking.
• Leftover pasta tends to absorb the sauce, so add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
• Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Fresh cilantro adds a wonderful freshness, but if you don’t like it, chopped green onions or parsley work great too.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms and beans for protein.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or black beans to the sauté step for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
• Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Make it Creamier: Stir in some cream cheese or sour cream just before serving.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef stock or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQ

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives and will work well with this recipe. Just brown the meat the same way and proceed with the recipe as directed.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this recipe on the stovetop by browning the beef and onions in a large pot, then adding the remaining ingredients and simmering until the pasta is cooked through. Stir frequently and add more broth as needed.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes! You can increase the heat by using a spicier salsa, adding diced jalapeños, or mixing in cayenne pepper or chili powder along with the taco seasoning.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, this taco pasta freezes well. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Taco Pasta is a game-changer for busy weeknights when you want something quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It combines the best of taco-inspired spices with creamy, cheesy pasta, all made effortlessly in one pot. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Give it a try, customize it to your taste, and enjoy the delicious comfort of taco pasta in no time!